Ready to take your motorcycle on the open road? This article will take you through the steps to get your Florida motorcycle license with an extra emphasis on safe driving.

The Rules

Under Florida DMV guidelines, anyone who drives a motorcycle must have a Class M motorcycle license or motorcycle instruction permit.

Applicants must be 16 years of age, pass the motorcycle knowledge test, a hearing test, and a vision screening. The final step is to pass the motorcycle skills test where you will demonstrate your competency in motorcycle operation.

All first-time applicants for a motorcycle endorsement who are under age twenty-one must complete a department approved motorcycle safety education course.

Prepare for the Written Exam

The Florida DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written motorcycle knowledge test on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.

If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least until the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.

All motorcyclists are encouraged to study for this written test so you won't take a chance on standing in line at the DMV Office only to go home empty-handed. Online motorcycle sample tests are available that provide real sample questions from the Florida DMV Motorcycle Exam.

Paperwork

Before you head to the Florida DMV Office, make sure you have the following required documents to get your motorcycle license. Examples include:

* Birth certificate issued in any state
* Drivers license or instruction permit issued in another state
* U.S. passport
* U.S. military ID card (active duty, retired, reserve)
* Florida ID card
* Social Security Number, if issued,
* Documents from a court of record
* Marriage certificate

On the Road

Once your licensing requirements have been met, a Class M endorsement will be added to your driver's license. Remember... the safe operation of a motorcycle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the operator, the machine, and the environment.